Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator) vs. E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator)
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
E330 (Citric Acid) is a tricarboxylic organic acid produced by industrial fermentation of Aspergillus niger on carbohydrate substrates. INS 330, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the single most widely used acidulant, flavor enhancer, and metal chelator on Earth.
E460 (Microcrystalline Cellulose / MCC) is purified, depolymerized wood pulp cellulose prepared by acid hydrolysis. INS 460(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), functioning as a zero-calorie bulking agent, anti-caking agent, and fat mimetic in low-calorie foods.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E330 | E460 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 330 | INS 460(i) |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Sequestrant, Antioxidant Synergist | Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H8O7 (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid) | (C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Delivers bright citrus sourness; chelates pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe/Cu); activates pectin gelation | Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Citrus beverages, candy/confectionery, jams, canned tomatoes, cheese curdling, soft drinks | Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Aspergillus fungal sugar fermentation), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1033) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) |
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